Job Introduction

We are excited to announce an outstanding opportunity at Northumbria University’s Student Accommodation for a dynamic and experienced Head of Technical Operations. Located in the vibrant cities of Newcastle and Gateshead, this role offers the chance to lead a skilled technical team overseeing a large-scale, multi-activity student accommodation facility with an annual turnover exceeding £2 million.

You will spearhead the technical operations, strategically enhancing our facilities management and commercial services to ensure excellence in service delivery. Reporting to the Contract Director, you will play a critical role in evolving our existing client relationships and driving innovative solutions to elevate the living and service experience of our students and stakeholders.

This is a strategic yet hands-on role where your ability to propose new ideas and lead FM projects will be key. You will manage a diverse team of nine skilled professionals across four closely located sites, ensuring high performance with minimal micromanagement. Your week will be structured around a Monday to Friday schedule, with 40 flexible hours that respect your life outside of work.

We are looking for an independent innovator with a robust understanding of technical operations and project management tools like Maximo. Your confidence in client-facing interactions and your commitment to fostering strong relationships will be invaluable. With a focus on strategic growth and operational excellence, you will ensure that our technical services are compliant, efficient, and leading the industry.

If you are ready to take on a role that blends strategic oversight with operational agility, and you thrive in an environment where innovation leads to real-world results, we invite you to apply. Join us in shaping the future of student living at Northumbria University, where your leadership will make a lasting impact.

What you’ll do:Management of Statutory/Mandatory planned and reactive maintenanceManagement of Maximo CAFM System and Maximo Wando Management and development of the technical teamManagement of Sub ContractorsSupport the Sodexo Management team by ensuring that the service provides a high level of stakeholder satisfaction Contribute to the development of a collaborative and inclusive culture, by sharing information and best practice with others Work cooperatively and maintain effective relationships with others, both internally and externally to Sodexo, as appropriate to own area of responsibility. To assist with the logistics of the Technical Services provision, for example On-Call Rota’s, Weekly progress reports, ensuring mileage and use of company vehicles is recorded. To assist with all aspects of Health and Safety compliance, assist with the preparation of Risk Assessments, COSHH Assessments, Safe Systems of Work, To comply at all times with the Company's Quality Assurance and Health and Safety Procedures and to ensure that all work is undertaken in accordance with industry best practice.For a full list of responsibilities please view the attached job description

What you bring:A recognised apprenticeship or HNC in Mechanical/Electrical Engineering discipline with a commitment to undergo continuing professional development.Skilled in ‘hands on’ maintenance, diagnosis and repair of a range of plant and equipment and capable of anticipating potential faults or problems which may occur within the full range of building services.Ability to prioritise own workload with minimal supervision and use of own initiative Ability to work quickly and calmly, especially under pressure and in emergency situations Excellent communication skills and an active listenerBe a team worker with a flexible approach, to include the ability to request and offer support from other team members as required, including liaison with line manager Possess good communication skills, both verbal and written, including accurate spelling and grammar and the ability to give explanations clearly Experience of using databases, spread sheets and other computer based applications including Microsoft Office IOSH Working Safely or equivalent knowledge,(or a willingness to undertake and complete successfully within 3 months from commencement of employment)Ability to work effectively without close supervision and possess good organisational skills.A working knowledge of Health & Safety Legislation Knowledge of PPM maintenance systems (SFG20)Experienced in the safe use of hand tools, power tools and test equipment.The ability to communicate clearly at all levels within the organisation.Flexible – is willing to undertake a range of tasks and duties vital for the effective and successful running of the contract. Good at planning and organisation with the ability to manage to day to day workload of the team.What we offer: 
Working with Sodexo is more than a job; it’s a chance to be part of something greater. You’ll belong in a company and team that values you for you; you’ll act with purpose and have an impact through your everyday actions; and you’ll be able to thrive in your own way. In addition, we offer:Flexible and dynamic work environmentPerformance BonusContributory pension schemeFlexible benefits fund of £1,300 to utilise across an array of benefits

We’re a Disability Confident Leader employer. We’re committed to changing attitudes towards disability, and making sure disabled people have the chance to fulfil their aspirations. We run a Disability Confident interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria for the job. 

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